Failure to modulate reward prediction errors in declarative learning with theta (6 Hz) frequency transcranial alternating current stimulation

PLoS One. 2020 Dec 3;15(12):e0237829. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0237829. eCollection 2020.

Abstract

Recent evidence suggests that reward prediction errors (RPEs) play an important role in declarative learning, but its neurophysiological mechanism remains unclear. Here, we tested the hypothesis that RPEs modulate declarative learning via theta-frequency oscillations, which have been related to memory encoding in prior work. For that purpose, we examined the interaction between RPE and transcranial Alternating Current Stimulation (tACS) in declarative learning. Using a between-subject (real versus sham stimulation group), single-blind stimulation design, 76 participants learned 60 Dutch-Swahili word pairs, while theta-frequency (6 Hz) tACS was administered over the medial frontal cortex (MFC). Previous studies have implicated MFC in memory encoding. We replicated our previous finding of signed RPEs (SRPEs) boosting declarative learning; with larger and more positive RPEs enhancing memory performance. However, tACS failed to modulate the SRPE effect in declarative learning and did not affect memory performance. Bayesian statistics supported evidence for an absence of effect. Our study confirms a role of RPE in declarative learning, but also calls for standardized procedures in transcranial electrical stimulation.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Bayes Theorem
  • Female
  • Frontal Lobe / physiology
  • Humans
  • Learning / physiology*
  • Male
  • Memory / physiology
  • Reward
  • Single-Blind Method
  • Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation / methods
  • Young Adult

Grants and funding

KE conducted the research as a doctoral researcher, supported by grant 1153418N of the Research Foundation Flanders (https://www.fwo.be/). EDL and TV were supported by grant BOF17-GOA-004 from the Research Council of Ghent University (https://www.ugent.be/nl/onderzoek/financiering/bof). The funders had no role in study design, data collection and analysis, decision to publish, or preparation of the manuscript.